WATTS HAPPENING?
The rules are changing, and Parnalls’ Ryan Lemon and Iain Robinson are amped to tell you more. The burden on residential landlords increased at the start of July; a 5-yearly electrical test is now mandatory* before a landlord can grant most new tenancies. This includes most farm tenancies and licenses as well as assured shorthold tenancies.**
CURRENT REGULATIONS
Before granting a tenancy, the landlord will be required to get an Electrical Installation Certificate. This requires a competent and qualified electrician to test any electrical wiring in the property, and certify whether it is compliant with the 18th edition of the Wiring Regulations. This edition runs from 1 January 2019, so an installation tested after then is will be compliant as long as any remedial works have been completed.
WIRE YOU TELLING US THIS?
Almost all residential landlords will be affected; they will be required to have a certificate in place and give it to the tenant (and even to a prospective tenant) before granting a new tenancy. This is an additional cost, and if remedial works are required it will delay the start of the tenancy too. The local council can fine landlords up to £30,000 if they are found not to have the correct certificate without good reason.
DOES THIS AFFECT RESIDENTIAL OHM-OWNERS?
No. Private homes are excluded, even if you have a lodger.
POSITIVES AND NEGATIVES FOR TRANSACTIONS
A property with a certificate is now much more attractive to a buy-to-let investor. Uncertified properties, especially those with old wiring, are likely to be in lower demand. Buyers of tenanted properties will also need to check whether the certificate has been correctly given to the tenant. Parnalls can advise on regulatory compliance if you are looking to purchase a property to let out.
For more information and advice on Electrical Installation Certificates please contact Claire Wickes, Ben Mitchell, or Iain Robinson on 01566 772375.
*Regulations: Electrical Safety Standards in the Private Rented Sector (England) Regulations 2020
**there are exceptions for Registered Social Landlords, very long leases, student halls, hostels, refuges, car homes, hospitals and hospices, all of which have their own separate regulations
